2014 Mercedes-Benz S-class

Mar 28, 2012

What It Is:
A thorough reworking of Benz’s flagship sedan. It will introduce several new safety systems including a “braking bag” located between the front wheels: When a crash is imminent, the bag inflates and pushes a metal plate onto the ground to slow the car. Inside, there’s a new set of seat-mounted side airbags that herd occupants toward the middle of the car. Airbag-equipped seatbelts will be optional.

Why It Matters:
The S-class is Mercedes’ standard-bearer. This iteration should help the brand reestablish itself as a safety leader while intensifying the focus on efficiency.

Platform:
Underpinning the S-class is a new aluminum-intensive unibody. As with the current generation, our market will likely get the long-wheelbase version only. After the S-class launches, a superstretched, 267-inch-long “Pullman” version will arrive as the replacement for the Maybach 57/62. The Pullman will compete against the Rolls-Royce Ghost and the Bentley Continental Flying Spur.

Powertrain:
A diesel-electric plug-in hybrid will bring small-car economy to the S-class, at least in Europe. Stateside, S-classes will come with a twin-turbocharged V-8 or a new V-12.